Borderlands 4 Must Leave Its Golden Goose in The Dust

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Borderlands 4 Must Leave Its Golden Goose in The Dust

Key Takeaways

  • Borderlands 4 teaser suggests Lilith’s return with her Phasewalking a big moon or planet into the sky.
  • Speculation about Handsome Jack’s return as the main villain in BL4 was debunked by Randy Pitchford.
  • BL4 should move away from Handsome Jack to allow for new enemies and character growth, as well as not to make the series stagnant.

As a seasoned Borderlands fan, I’ve been through the highs and lows of Pandora and its vibrant universe. From the moment I laid my eyes on that teaser at Gamescom, I could feel the familiar thrill coursing through my veins. The return of Lilith, the fiery phoenix in the sky, and the tantalizing hints of a new enemy looming large – it’s safe to say I’m hooked!

Following a prolonged period of silence from Gearbox, with only rumors circulating about Borderlands 4, the beloved looter-shooter game made a reappearance at Gamescom, sparking numerous fan theories regarding the upcoming series installment. At this point, very little is disclosed, as the teaser offered glimpses of familiar elements combined with fresh details that hint at a significant storyline to come. The Director’s Cut DLC for Borderlands 3 did confirm Lilith’s survival post-game, and the teaser for Borderlands 4 reinforces this by featuring her iconic fiery phoenix in the sky, indicating that she remains alive.

In addition, the trailer for Borderlands 4 hints at something extraordinary – a phoenix leading up to an immense moon or perhaps even a full-sized planet being transported, which aligns with Lilith’s Phasewalk ability, suggesting it might be her work. Some fans have also noticed a frame displaying the Vault symbol that appears similar to Handsome Jack’s scar from Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, but this theory was quickly debunked by Randy Pitchford, stating it represents something “more menacing and sinister” instead. Although this seems to imply that Handsome Jack won’t be the antagonist in Borderlands 4, it doesn’t definitively indicate whether the series will move away from him.

Borderlands 4 Risks Cementing Handsome Jack As The Face of The Franchise

Why BL4 Shouldn’t Include Handsome Jack

The long-awaited Borderlands 4 might be released in fall 2025, marking approximately six years since BL3. Despite the immense success of Borderlands 3, some fans feel it took a step back by relying on Handsome Jack again, who has become synonymous with the franchise and is often praised as one of the greatest video game villains. This return to a familiar antagonist can be justified given Handsome Jack’s iconic status within the series.

As a die-hard Borderlands fan, I can’t help but acknowledge the indelible impact Handsome Jack has left on this beloved franchise. From his dominance in Borderlands 2, his significant role in Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, to even having a DLC dedicated to his legacy in Borderlands 3 and a side quest that delved into the heartbreaking tale of his family, it’s clear that he casts a long shadow over the series.

Why Borderlands 4 Needs a Blank Slate, Free From Handsome Jack

Throughout the entire Borderlands series, Handsome Jack’s image is prominently featured, including in the Tales From The Borderlands spin-off games. Although introducing a new villain for Borderlands 4 could be exciting, especially if this new enemy surpasses Jack in danger and sinister qualities, it might not be sufficient. Instead, the upcoming title could minimize Jack’s role, perhaps hinting at him through some dialogue or weapon descriptions as an Easter egg, but without any significant presence. This would allow both veteran players and newcomers to explore a fresh start, with a clean slate for the storyline. Even without a major role, most players are likely to remember Jack, but reducing his presence could enhance the overall experience for everyone.

Over time, it’s almost come to be anticipated that Jack appears in the Borderlands series due to his frequent use. However, removing this well-known character could provide more room for existing characters to develop and allow new ones to take center stage.

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2024-10-09 13:36